the asck story

Autism Support Center (Kenya) is currently working with over 100 children and young adults on the autism spectrum from poor families in Nairobi. The exact number of those with Autism Spectrum Disorders in this region is not known but going by the average global statics of 1 autistic child for every 88 children, the population of kids with this condition in Nairobi and larger Kenya is certainly huge. The organization is committed to intensify awareness campaigns so that families can seek out help for their kids with autism and have them involved in activities that will help unleash their full potential and ensure their optimal participation in social economic activities of the communities in which they live.

founders

Working with kids with special needs has always been James’ passion since he was in high school. He had been admitted to study BA degree when he joined Maseno University but opted to pursue Special Education degree. His first encounter with autism was in 2002 when he was recruited by the Autism Society of Kenya to be the pioneer teacher of the Autism Unit at City Primary school in Nairobi. He later left to work for a diplomat family with an autistic boy before moving to New York. He returned to Kenya in 2011 and focused on starting an organization that could make a positive impact on the lives of those on the autism spectrum and help them achieve beyond their disability. He teamed up with Sara Jamal and some parents of kids with autism to found Autism Support Center-Kenya. James greatest inspiration comes from playing, laughing, dancing, learning and simply being in the company of kids with autism.

Director of Autism Support Center (Kenya)BSc Psychology Bethany College USAPost Graduate Diploma of Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology From the University College of London

After completing her bachelor’s degree at Bethany College, Sara acquired a job as a behavior therapist at a clinic working with children that have developmental and behavioral disorders. She spent several years working one on one with at risk children and their families in their homes. During this time she fell in love with her job and the children with whom she worked. It became her goal to continue in the field of autism and special needs for the rest of her life. Since moving to Kenya in 2012, she and James Karanja founded the Autism Support Center (Kenya) where she oversees the running of the center, executes assessments and behavior therapy sessions.

Secretary of Autism Support Center (Kenya)Bachelors in Early Childhood Development and Education Daystar UniversityCertificate in Child and Adolescent Therapy Amani Counselling and Training InstituteOwners Managed Program Strathmore Business School; Certificate in Auxillary Nursing and Care; Labor Studies and Human Resource Management

Pilie Ndiangui is a very passionate, hands on member of the ASC(K) team. Not only is she secretary on the Board of Directors, she also creates and administers workshops for the mentoring of children, adolescents, caregivers, and parents. She believes that effective training and guidance will lead to improvement of the lives of special needs children in the home. Pilie also has vast experience in early childhood development and inclusive education. Pilie has been a valuable addition to the ASC(K) team, bringing with her her drive to work hard and offer the best possible treatments for those touched by special needs in Kenya.

Treasurer of Autism Support Center (Kenya)Diploma in Secretarial Duties/Administration Kenya Government Secretarial College

Grace Manyara has been a pillar in the autism community in Kenya for over 20 years. She was a founder and member of the original Autism Society of Kenya when it was first formed in 2003. Her son, John, is a wonderful young man with Autism who inspires us all. Grace is very active in her community, offering support to other parents with children touched by special needs; and she is a member of countless groups and committees, inlcuding the Welfare Committee at St Joseph of Arimathea Church and the Golden Girls Self Help Group. ​